SLCPD to Host Metals Theft Training for Law Enforcement

SALT LAKE CITY — The Salt Lake City Police Department will host a special training for law enforcement on metals theft, one of the fastest growing crimes in the country, Tuesday, November 5, at the Public Safety Building, 475 S. 300 E.

Most copper thieves have drug habits and need the quick, easy cash that comes from stealing copper wire from construction sites or city street lights, bronze statues or catalytic converters and selling it to metal recyclers.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that copper theft costs US consumers billions of dollars each year. However, for every $100 a thief gets for stolen copper, it costs the utility company $5,000 to repair. The problem is so severe that the FBI says “copper thieves are threatening critical US infrastructure,” according to Metal Theft Training and Consultants, LLC, which will present the one-day training.

While the training is closed to all but law enforcement and their investigative partners, reporters are invited to meet with metals theft expert Lt. Terence Alling and SLCPD Det. Mike Millard from 12-1 p.m. Tuesday, November 5, at the Public Safety Building.